The African Dance & Drum Ensemble is a dynamic, year-round program that invites young people to explore the rich traditions of African dance and drumming in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Through engaging classes, students develop confidence, creativity, coordination, and teamwork while connecting with culture through the power of music and movement.
Whether your child is new to the performing arts or already loves to dance and make music, this program offers a fun and inclusive space to learn, grow, and belong. Students will build performance skills, make new friends, and become part of a vibrant artistic community that celebrates expression, heritage, and connection.
Class Schedule
Wednesdays
Kindergarten – 5th Grade
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Dance
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Drumming
Thursdays
6th – 12th Grade
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Drumming
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Dance
Discover the rhythm, energy, and tradition of African performing arts through our engaging weekly classes.
- African Dance: $10 per class
- African Drumming: $10 per class
- Dance & Drumming Combo: $15 per week
Join one class or experience both at a discounted rate. All skill levels are welcome!
Register Here:
Meet The Instructors:
Anaheysha Baptiste-White
Anaheysha Baptiste is a dancer, drummer, choreographer, educator, and community advocate. She completed dual bachelor’s degrees in Dance and Public Health from SUNY Brockport. Her work centers on African and Afro-diasporic dance traditions, combining cultural preservation, performance, teaching, and community engagement. Anaheysha has performed, taught, and supported the preservation of traditions from Guinea, Senegal, Mali, Nigeria, Brazil, Panama, and beyond. Through her experience in choreography and youth and community instruction, she is passionate about using dance and drumming to promote wellness, empower communities, and create inclusive spaces that celebrate culture, connection, and overall well-being.
Emmanuel Akinyeju
Choreographer, Director & Percussionist
Emmanuel Akinyeju is a Nigerian choreographer, director, percussionist, dance educator, and performing artist specializing in African dance, traditional Nigerian music, and drumming. He holds an MFA in Dance from SUNY Brockport and has extensive experience teaching, choreographing, and performing African dance and music. Through his artistic practice, Emmanuel promotes African cultural heritage, rhythm, movement, and storytelling while creating educational and performance opportunities for diverse communities.